§ 11. Mr. WATTasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called by the St. Andrew Society of Glasgow to the wording of the hymn sung at the launching of vessels of the British Navy, where the word "England's" is used instead of "Britain's"; if so, will he say what action he has taken in this matter; and will he see that wherever this error occurs in the work of his Department it will be rectified?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAOur attention has been called to the wording of one of the alternative hymns which are sung at the launching of vessels of the British Navy. In consequence, with the permission of the holder of the copyright, the phrase "May England's sons" will, in future reprints of the service to be used at the launching of ships, be altered to the phrase, "May Britain's sons." I am not aware that there is any ground for the suggestion contained in the final part of the question, but perhaps my hon. Friend will communicate with me upon the matter.
§ Mr. WATTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, contrary to the Treaty of Union between Scotland and England, the term "England" instead of "Britain" is used?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI do not know, but I will look it up. At any rate, we are going to use the word "Britain," which includes Scotland.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEHas the right hon. Gentleman satisfied himself that the use of the word "Britain" will be agreeable to all parts of the United Kingdom?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am afraid I shall have to look that up too.